The Dilemma of Police Officer Resignations
The practice of police officers resigning before being fired is a topic that often generates confusion and curiosity. Resigning allows officers to retain certain benefits and maintain their professional standing, which is a far cry from the harsh reality of being fired. Here, we explore the reasons behind this behavior and its implications.
Understanding Resignations vs. Firings
Firings and arrests are indeed different legal and practical scenarios. When a police officer is fired, it means termination from their employment without the option to continue working in the same line of work. An arrest, on the other hand, can lead to termination but also to criminal charges, which can have far-reaching consequences.
An officer might be fired as a result of an administrative investigation, which brings to an end both their employment and their career in law enforcement, but does not necessarily include a permanent mark on their record for non-criminal reasons.
Why Officers Resign
Some officers choose to resign before being fired for various strategic reasons. This decision is particularly common when there is suspicion or evidence that might lead to termination. By resigning, officers avoid the stigma of being fired, which could negatively impact their future opportunities.
One of the most common reasons is to retain their pension. In many cases, officers who are close to retirement can choose to retire voluntarily rather than face termination, allowing them to secure their pension benefits. This financial security is often crucial for their future wellbeing.
Another practical benefit is getting hired by another agency. Resigning can present a cleaner record on a new application. Many officers simply move to a different police department rather than facing legal or disciplinary issues. They essentially become 'predatory vipers' spreading their practices under new names, trying to do the same work in another city or county.
Strategic Movements in Law Enforcement
The practice of resigning to avoid termination is not unique to individuals but can also be a strategy employed by law enforcement associations (such as the PBA) to protect their members. Instead of facing termination, officers can resign and find new positions in other departments, effectively spreading their influence across different areas.
Moreover, the process of resigning before termination can be used to avoid criminal charges, which are brought by the prosecuting authority and can have severe legal and personal consequences. By resigning, officers essentially turn themselves into 'bad apples' who can infect other departments without facing the full brunt of legal repercussions.
Conclusion
The practice of police officer resignations before being fired is a nuanced and frequently misunderstood aspect of law enforcement. Understanding the motivations behind this behavior is crucial for evaluating the integrity and accountability of law enforcement agencies. Whether it's to retain pension benefits, avoid negative records, or move to another department, the decision to resign has significant implications for the careers and well-being of individual officers and the public trust in law enforcement.